When discussions turn to Norway’s chances at the World Cup, the conversation almost always begins with Erling Haaland.
Understandably so.
The Manchester City striker is one of the most feared forwards in world football and arrives in North America after a breathtaking qualifying campaign in which he scored 16 goals in eight matches. Five came against Moldova. Three more followed against Israel. He found the net in every single qualifier.
If Norway are to navigate a daunting Group of Death and make a deep run at the tournament, Haaland’s goals will be essential.
But reducing this Norwegian side to one man would be a mistake.
For the first time in a generation, Norway have assembled a squad with genuine quality throughout the team. Haaland may be the face of the project, but the players around him are capable of turning an exciting outsider into a serious contender.
Odegaard: The Man Behind the Magic
If Haaland is Norway’s finisher, Martin Odegaard is their conductor.
The Arsenal captain remains one of Europe’s finest creators, and his influence on this side cannot be overstated. Despite missing three qualification matches through injury, Odegaard still registered seven assists, the highest tally of any player in Europe.
His understanding with Haaland has become one of Norway’s greatest weapons. Time and again, his vision and precision create opportunities others simply do not see.
Norway need Haaland to finish chances.
They need Odegaard to create them.
Firepower From the Flanks
Norway’s attack is far more varied than many realise.
Antonio Nusa has emerged as one of Europe’s brightest young wingers. The RB Leipzig star combines pace, skill and fearlessness in one-on-one situations, contributing six goals and assists in six qualifying appearances.
Then there is Alexander Sorloth, whose role adds another dimension entirely. Despite standing at 6-foot-5, the Atletico Madrid forward often starts from the right before drifting centrally to support Haaland. His eight goal contributions during qualifying underline his importance.
Andreas Schjelderup provides further excitement. The Benfica youngster arrives in excellent form and is widely regarded as one of Norway’s future stars, while Oscar Bobb and Jens Petter Hauge offer additional depth and unpredictability.
Suddenly, stopping Haaland is no longer enough.
Strength in Midfield
Behind the attacking names lies the platform that allows Norway to function.
Sander Berge brings composure and defensive discipline, shielding the back line while giving Odegaard greater freedom to influence games further forward.
Fredrik Aursnes adds intelligence and experience. After briefly stepping away from international football, the Benfica midfielder returned to the fold and now looks set to play a key role on the world’s biggest stage.
With Patrick Berg, Kristian Thorstvedt and Morten Thorsby also available, Norway possess options that many so-called dark horses simply do not have.
More Than Dark Horses?
Norway’s 28-year wait to return to the World Cup has been built on more than the goals of Erling Haaland.
Yes, their superstar striker will dominate the headlines.
Yes, he could decide matches on his own.
But this team now has creativity, balance, depth and tactical flexibility throughout the squad.
That is what separates entertaining outsiders from genuine contenders.
The world knows what Haaland can do.
This World Cup may be the tournament where everyone discovers what the rest of Norway are capable of too.
